Nathaniel Dawson at First Manassas-- Part 1

Nathaniel Dawson was, at this time, the fiancee of Elodie Todd.

Manassas, Virginia, July 24, 1861

"We, the 4th Ala., with the 2nd Miss. And the 6th N.C. Rg., under Ben. Bee commenced the fight by attacking the advancing column of Yankees.  Our reg. was supposed to attack 5,000 men and after keeping them in check for one hour, retreated, fell back upon the reserve.   (Charles Fisher commanded the 6th North Carolina at Manassas and was killed in the battle.  Fort Fisher was named after him.)

"I was injured by a sprain in the ankle and missed the Reg. which was in advance and was not further engaged.  About 200 of the reg. was collected but took no further active part in the battle.  We have but about 200 killed and wounded.  Among the former is Lieut. Simpson, whom you saw last winter in Montgomery.  He was to be married to Miss Collier...."

--Old Secesh